Child, I can do these things because I love you

I can give you life; but I cannot make you live it.

I can teach you many things; but I cannot force you to learn.

I can tell you how to distinguish right from wrong; but I cannot make the choices for you.

I can guide you on how to be a good person; but I cannot take responsibility for all your actions.

I can offer you my sincere love; but I cannot force you to accept it.

I can teach you to share blessings with family and friends; but I cannot force you to do so.

I can teach you how to respect others; but I cannot guarantee you will be respected in return.

I can tell you what true friendship is; but I cannot choose your friends for you.

I can educate you about the dangers of alcohol; but I cannot make you say 'no'.

I can tell you that you must set high and noble goals for your life; but I cannot help you achieve them.

I can teach you good qualities in a person; but I cannot guarantee you will become a good person.

I can reproach you for your mistakes; but I cannot ensure you will become a moral person.

I can tell you how to live a more meaningful life; but I cannot give you eternal life.

I can assure you that I will do my utmost to give you the best things; but I cannot give you a bright future or career.

Child, I can do many things for you, because I love you;

However, you must understand that even if I want to stay with you forever, you must make those important decisions yourself.

Therefore, I only ask that you be warmed by the eternal sunshine along your life's path.